1979 Mazda 121 vs. 1985 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1985 Peugeot 309 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mazda 121 (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1985 Peugeot 309. (63 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1985 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mazda 121 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1985 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mazda 121 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Peugeot 309, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Peugeot 309. (109 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mazda 121 | 1985 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | 121 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 73.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 864 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2480 mm |
